Imagine a sizzling plate of succulent shrimp and tender calamari, infused with the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean coastline. This isn't just another seafood recipe—it's a culinary journey that will transport your taste buds to sun-drenched shores with every single bite. Whether you're a grilling enthusiast or a seafood connoisseur, our Mediterranean Grilled Shrimp and Calamari recipe promises to turn an ordinary meal into an extraordinary dining experience that will have your guests begging for seconds!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 pound calamari, cleaned and sliced
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by preparing all your ingredients. Rinse the shrimp and calamari under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. This will ensure they grill nicely without excess moisture.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cleaned shrimp and sliced calamari. Add the minced garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together until the seafood is evenly coated with the marinade. Allow it to marinate for about 15 minutes to enhance the flavors.
- While the seafood is marinating, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If you are using a grill pan, place it on the stove over medium-high heat to get hot.
- Once the grill is hot, skewer the shrimp and calamari onto skewers. If you are using wooden skewers, make sure to soak them in water for at least 30 minutes prior to grilling to prevent burning.
- Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque, and the calamari becomes tender. Be careful not to overcook, as seafood can become rubbery if grilled for too long.
- Once cooked, remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a couple of minutes. This will allow the juices to redistribute within the seafood.
- Serve the grilled shrimp and calamari on a platter. You can garnish with additional lemon wedges and fresh herbs like parsley or basil for added flavor and presentation.
- Enjoy your Mediterranean Grilled Shrimp and Calamari with a side of grilled vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal!
Tips
- Pat your seafood completely dry before marinating to ensure perfect caramelization and prevent steaming.
- Always preheat your grill or grill pan to achieve those beautiful char marks and lock in flavors.
- Use wooden or metal skewers to make grilling and handling easier—if using wooden skewers, remember to soak them in water first.
- Watch your cooking time carefully! Seafood cooks quickly, and just 2-3 minutes per side is usually perfect.
- Let the grilled seafood rest for a few minutes after cooking to redistribute the juices and maintain maximum tenderness.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or a squeeze of lemon right before serving.
- Pair with a crisp white wine or a light Mediterranean salad to complete your culinary experience.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 5g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 250mg
